La Sagrada Familia

Yesterday, we had the opportunity to visit La Sagrada Familia. Have you heard of it or seen pictures? Wow. I am already dreading the task of describing the experience. How do you best describe art? How do you describe something so beautiful it takes your breath away?

For memory’s sake, I will endeavour to try.

La Sagrada Familia is a massive basilica located in the heart of Barcelona. It is dissimilar to other basilicas or cathedrals we have visited because it is designed by famous modernist architect, Antoni Gaudi. Although the basilica has the similar cross design of other churches, it comprises a style architecture which is altogether mathematical and whimsical and other-worldly.

Gaudi was a pioneer of modernist architecture. Many buildings throughout Northern Spain display his creative genius. He was commissioned to design and build La Sagrada Familia at the ripe old age of 41 years. Gaudi spent the rest of his life dedicated to this church, and died before its completion. In fact, the building has been under construction for over 100 years and is only 60% finished! The estimated date of completion is 2026.

Alex is already planning our return. You are more than welcome to join!

From the outside, La Sagrada Familia is ominous and awe-inspiring. In addition to basic greyish stone, there are bits of colored tiles and stained glass and paint decorating various elements of the church. Each side of the church has a particular theme: nativity, passion, and resurrection.

The inside is no less amazing. (And it is the most complete part of the church.) The ceilings are endless and the flying buttresses have been replaced by stone trees. Gaudi stated he wanted a person to feel as if he were worshipping in God’s original sanctuary, nature. Thus, the columns and ceiling evoke the feeling that you are in a forest, with gentle light breaking through the canopy overhead. Light trickles through the stained glass and casts a glow on the sanctuary.

Every detail of the church has been well-thought out and executed flawlessly.

We spent about 4 hours digesting the exterior and interior of La Sagrada Familia. We could have spent another 4 hours merely sitting and worshipping in the space. Alex’s quote of the day was, “This is my favorite church ever.” Quite a lofty statement. But I concur.

Below are some pictures of the outside and inside. I took about 1,000 more with my new Nikon camera.

I recommend checking out the website dedicated to the church. And if you are ever in Barcelona for work or play, I say go!

By the way, I am rehashing this amazing experience from a train. The time has come to say adios to Spain and bonjour to France!

 Started in 1882 and not yet complete.

 The nativity story.

 The passion story.

 Some stained glass amazing-ness!

"Favorite church ever"